TIG Post

Author: Phoebe Martekie Doku

  • LPG prices to see reduction soon – NPA

    LPG prices to see reduction soon – NPA

    The Executive Director of the Institute for Energy Policies and Research (INSTEPR), Kwadwo Nsafoah Poku, has hinted at an imminent decrease in Liquefied Petroleum Gas (LPG) prices, signaling a potential relief for consumers.

    He commended the National Petroleum Authority (NPA) management for its effective leadership and innovative approach in implementing the cylinder recirculation model (CRM).

    In a statement on Friday, February 2, Poku, recognizing the efforts led by Dr. Mustapha Hamid, highlighted the introduction of an international tender for LPG importation by the NPA management.

    Mr Poku expressed optimism that the tendering process, fostering competition in LPG pricing, would result in a gradual reduction in LPG prices in the upcoming months.

    “Led by Dr. Mustapha Hamid, the NPA management has introduced an international tender for LPG importation,” he wrote on Friday, February 2.

    “This tendering process has introduced competition in the pricing of LPG, and consumers can expect to see a gradual reduction in LPG price in the coming months.”

    Acknowledging past challenges with CRM since its introduction post the 2017 gas explosion at Atomic Junction in Accra, he stressed the importance of addressing the implementation of this capital-intensive policy while ensuring continued affordability for households.

    Under CRM, customers no longer need to purchase gas cylinders, as pre-filled cylinders of various sizes are provided, allowing customers to exchange their empty cylinders for filled ones.

    He emphasized the urgent need to evaluate and reform the petroleum downstream value chain, especially given private sector participation in the sector for over 15 years.

    He noted the key decision of revamping the Tema Oil Refinery (TOR) and suggested establishing a roadmap for TOR, emphasizing the potential for comprehensive discussions on fuel security and affordability in the coming years with private refineries in Ghana.

  • 191 financial institutions now connected to NIA database

    191 financial institutions now connected to NIA database

    The National Identification Authority (NIA) has officially confirmed that approximately 191 financial institutions, including Universal Banks, Rural Banks, and Savings and Loan companies, have successfully integrated into its data system.

    In an interview on the Citi Breakfast Show on Friday, February 2, the Executive Secretary of the NIA, Prof. Kenneth Attafuah, revealed that these institutions have seamlessly connected to the Authority’s system.

    This integration, he emphasized, streamlines the process of identity verification for clients by financial entities, enabling smooth fund transfers from bank accounts to mobile money wallets.

    The disclosure comes in response to public concerns about fees associated with transferring money between bank accounts and mobile money wallets with identical details.

    Head of the Ghana Association of Bankers, John Awuah, attributed these fees to inconsistencies in Ghana Card details between mobile money (MoMo) and bank accounts. He suggested that such discrepancies trigger the system to treat individuals differently, resulting in the application of charges.

    Contrary to this, Prof. Attafuah stressed that the shared information includes vital details such as names, birth dates, gender, and nationality, leaving no room for inconsistency.

    In the interview with sit-in host Caleb Kudah, Prof. Attafuah specifically mentioned, “I can tell you that the Bank of Ghana, all 24 universal banks in the country, 145 rural banks in Ghana some savings and loans companies, about eight of them and some centres, approximately 14 have been onboarded unto the NIA’s personal verification system platform enabling these institutions to verify the identities of persons who transact business for them in real-time.”

    He further elaborated that “as agreed with their regulator that is the Central Bank, we give them personal information that a client is required to give for KYC [Know-your-customer] and in fulfilment of the bank’s anti-money laundering rule. So the personal information that we give includes the surname, the first name, the previous name, date of birth, gender, nationality, residential address, digital address code and telephone number,” Prof Attafuah stated.

    He further explained that the NIA, in agreement with the Central Bank, provides personal information necessary for Know-Your-Customer (KYC) compliance and anti-money laundering rules. This information includes surname, first name, previous name, date of birth, gender, nationality, residential address, digital address code, and telephone number.

  • About 100 NPP members in Wa defect to NDC

    About 100 NPP members in Wa defect to NDC

    Approximately 100 members of the New Patriotic Party (NPP) in Wa, Northern Region, have formally pledged allegiance to the National Democratic Congress (NDC).

    During the induction ceremony organized to welcome the new members, Hanna Louisa Bissiw, a member of the National Women’s Organizer of the NDC, expressed that these individuals have made a significant choice for themselves and future generations.

    Dr Bissiw asserted that the NPP prioritizes personal gains over the country’s growth, unlike the opposition party.

    “Mahama started the Free education system, don’t let anyone deceive you that the NPP did. The NPP came to destroy what the NPP started. Work to bring more NPP members to the NPP. The NPP is in for personal gains and not the growth of the country. Induction of I00 unfaithful members of the NPP,” she stated.

    Highlighting the NDC’s commitment to inclusivity, she emphasized that whenever the NDC assumes power, it creates opportunities for various segments of society, including those who attended school, those who did not, market women, and the youth.

    “The NDC is a party of opportunities where the needs of the society are catered for. There’s an opportunity for every woman in the NDC, we are family, we love, we support each other. When the NDC comes to power we create opportunities for everyone, for those who went to school, those who did not, for the market women, the girl and boy child and for everyone,” she added.

    Bissiw debunked claims suggesting that the NPP initiated the Free Education system, crediting former President Mahama for its inception.

    She urged the newly inducted members to encourage their peers to join the NDC, emphasizing the party’s dedication to providing opportunities for all.

  • Some parents are getting their children into SHS through bribe – Dafeamekpor alleges

    Some parents are getting their children into SHS through bribe – Dafeamekpor alleges

    The Member of Parliament (MP) for South Dayi, Rockson-Nelson Dafeamekpor, has alleged that parents are currently paying bribes to secure admissions into various senior high schools (SHSs) in Ghana.

    According to him, these bribes are being demanded at the placement centers for SHS admissions.

    Speaking on TV3’s Key Points regarding the Corruption Perceptions Index report by Transparency International, Dafeamekpor expressed concerns about corruption in the education system, citing instances where parents are allegedly paying to secure spots in popular schools.

    He claimed that corruption has infiltrated the computerized placement system, leading to demands for bribes at placement centers.

    Dafeamekpor argued that this issue needs to be addressed to ensure fairness in the admission process.

    “Today, parents are paying bribes to admit their children into SHSs because the computer system is being tampered with.

    “They will tell you Achimota School is full but if you pay money they will admit you, they will tell you PRESEC is full but if you pay money they will admit you, this is not from the headmasters but persons at the placements centers,” he said on the Key Points on TV3 Saturday Febraury 3 regarding the Corruption Perceptions Index report by Transparency International, released on Tuesday, January 30, ranking Ghana in the 70th position out of 180 countries monitored.

    Additionally, Dafeamekpor criticized the current administration’s efforts in fighting corruption, stating that former President John Dramani Mahama demonstrated stronger political will in tackling corruption during his tenure.

    In contrast, private legal practitioner Martin Kpebu asserted that President Akufo-Addo lost the fight against corruption when he appointed relatives as ministers of state. Kpebu emphasized that Akufo-Addo’s family and friends’ governance is a sign of corruption.

    On the same program, Member of Parliament for Asante Akim North, Kwame Andy Appiah-Kubi, defended President Akufo-Addo, arguing that blaming the president for acts of corruption by other officers is unfair. Appiah-Kubi emphasized the independence of state investigative bodies empowered to fight corruption.

    The Corruption Perceptions Index (CPI) report by Transparency International ranked Ghana 70th out of 180 countries, with a score of 43 out of 100.

    The report highlighted concerns about stagnation in Ghana’s anti-corruption efforts for the fourth consecutive year.

  • NPP Polls in Yendi: EC interdicts 5 electoral officials

    NPP Polls in Yendi: EC interdicts 5 electoral officials

    The Electoral Commission (EC) has placed five electoral officers, responsible for overseeing the New Patriotic Party’s parliamentary primaries in Yendi, on interdiction.

    As per information from a source affiliated with the regional directorate of the Commission, the interdiction encompasses five officers who were designated to support the election process, excluding municipal officers.

    The Yendi constituency’s parliamentary election on Saturday, January 27, was marred by allegations against an Electoral Commission official accused of manipulating the ballots for one of the candidates.

    A Commission officer faced accusations of secreting Abibata’s ballot papers into his jacket, leading to a dispute resulting in torn ballot papers.

    Security intervention was necessary to restore order, and the election materials, including ballot papers, were transferred to the Yendi municipal police station.

    Despite this, EC officials declined to tally and announce the results.

    Alhaji Masawudu Osman, the party’s third Vice Chairman, declared Farouk Aliu Mahama as the winner of the elections.

  • 14 coastal communities receive vehicles from Govt

    14 coastal communities receive vehicles from Govt

    In recent years, the Ghanaian government has committed itself to the development and restoration of fishing ports and landing sites in fourteen coastal communities, aiming to rejuvenate the fisheries sector and enhance citizens’ livelihoods.

    These locations encompass Axim, Dixcove, Elmina, Winneba, Otuam, Moree, Mumford, Senya Breku, Gomoa Fetteh, Teshie, Osu, Jamestown, and Keta.

    The government reports that a majority of these projects are nearing completion, with some reaching almost 100%.

    To facilitate effective oversight and coordination of the coastal fishing ports and fish landing sites initiative, the Ministry of Transport has acquired and delivered 14 new Mitsubishi Pick-Ups to the metropolitan, municipal, and district assemblies overseeing these project sites.

    During a handover ceremony in Accra, Deputy Minister of Transport Alhassan Tampuli urged the recipient administrations to utilize the vehicles prudently.

    He reassured the public that all 14 projects would be operational by the end of the year.

    “By and large, except for two or three we are 100% complete as far as all these landing beaches are concerned. There are some that we’ve notice some defects so we are asking the contractor and then the consultants to go back and rectify those ones. We are still within the defect liability period but generally we are done” he assured.

  • DCE for Sawla-Tuna-Kalba reportedly involved in car accident

    DCE for Sawla-Tuna-Kalba reportedly involved in car accident

    The former Sawla-Tuna-Kalba District Chief Executive (DCE), Barikisu Losina, recently relieved of her duties by Presiden Akufo-Addo, has been involved in a car crash.

    The incident occurred on Saturday, February 3, 2024, near Guripe on the Sawla-Damongo Road, just one day after her dismissal.

    Traveling to Tamale with her child and a driver from the assembly, Barikisu Losina was reportedly involved in the accident, and the circumstances surrounding the crash remain unclear.

    Following the incident, the former DCE and the other occupants of the vehicle are currently receiving medical treatment at St. Anne’s Hospital in Damongo, according to a Citinewsroom report. However, the details of their injuries have not been disclosed.

    President Akufo-Addo had dismissed 24 Municipal and District Chief Executives, including Barikisu Losina, on January 2, 2024, without providing specific reasons for the dismissals.

    In a subsequent statement dated January 3, 2024, the President nominated 26 new Municipal and District Chief Executives, citing the authority granted by Article 243 (3) b of the Constitution and Section 20 (3) (b) of the Local Government Act, 2014, (Act 936) as the basis for his decision to replace the ousted officials.

  • Govt could decide to tax water and number of children soon – TUC

    Govt could decide to tax water and number of children soon – TUC

    The Secretary General of the Trades Union Congress (TUC), Dr. Anthony Yaw Baah, has justified the union’s resistance to the recently implemented 15% Value Added Tax (VAT) on domestic electricity usage.

    Dr. Baah maintained that acquiescing to this new tax could establish a precedent, potentially leading the government to introduce additional taxes, such as levies based on the number of children in couples.

    Speaking during a crucial meeting on February 2 to discuss the union’s strategy post the government’s ultimatum expiration, Dr. Yaw Baah underscored the burden on Ghanaian workers and urged resistance against further taxation.

    “If we don’t fight this, tomorrow it will be on the water, the next day it may be on the number of children that we will have. This is our duty and we will do it and do well until we win this battle,” Dr. Baah stated.

    “If we don’t oppose this, it could extend to water charges, or even taxes based on the number of children. It is our responsibility, and we will persist until we emerge victorious,” Dr. Baah emphasized.

    The TUC leader called for a unified front, urging both public and private sector workers, in both formal and informal sectors, to participate in the planned demonstration on February 13.

    He emphasized that the cause was a national obligation and invited employers, market women, and those in the informal economy to join the movement.

    Dr. Baah also disclosed that Ghana Publishers had informed him about the imposition of VAT on books on the same day.

    The TUC, along with 35 organized labor unions, declared their intention to stage a demonstration on February 13, demanding the repeal of the 15% VAT on electricity. The unions argue that the additional tax exacerbates the financial strain on workers, and the government’s refusal to accede to their demand has triggered the planned protest.

  • Ghana’s monarchy was destroyed after the British called it a ‘stool’ – Osu Wor-Lumor claims

    Ghana’s monarchy was destroyed after the British called it a ‘stool’ – Osu Wor-Lumor claims

    The narrative of Ghana’s history remains incomplete without acknowledging the coexistence of Christianity and African traditional religion, both sharing common approaches in appeasing a Supreme Being through thanksgiving and divine petitions.

    While Christians worship God through Jesus Christ, adherents of African traditional religion revere the Supreme Being through lesser gods and ancestral veneration.

    However, in recent times, leaders of the African Traditional Religion have expressed concerns about Christianity potentially eroding their identity, branding it as fetish.

    Chief Priest of Osu, Wor-Lumor Nuumo Noi Sekanku Kpenuku II, revealed in a People & Places interview that the controversy traces back to British influence.

    He explained that, in an attempt to diminish Ghana’s monarchy, the British labeled the chairs of Ghanaian chiefs as ‘stools,’ contrasting with the term ‘thrones’ for their own monarchs.

    “Let me enlighten you on something. When you go to England, the Queen is sitting on a chair they call the throne; you go to the Netherlands the same. You go to all these European countries where we have monarchs, they are sitting on thrones. Why is it that our monarchs sit on stools? Have you ever found the dictionary meaning of stool? When you get into the medical laboratories, stool means…the excreta that we leave in the gents. Oxford Dictionary, stool means something that you put your feet on.”

    “So you see, by this naming of our thrones, they have degraded our chiefs. The British, the colonial masters they degraded our chiefs. But they call their chairs thrones and they call ours stools. And they call the chair of God, throne. So they are gods to us, and they are not gods to us.”

    Expressing disappointment, he highlighted the negative connotation of the word ‘stool’ in medical laboratories, referring to excreta.

    He argued that the British, considering themselves colonial masters, equated their monarchy to God, positioning themselves as ‘gods.’

    Wor-Lumor Nuumo Noi Sekanku Kpenuku II emphasized that the British’s nomenclature degraded Ghanaian chiefs, portraying them as inferior.

    “No, we are holier than them. They came to kill and steal our minerals and goods, stole our human resources, and took our people as slaves. So we are cleaner than them,” he stated.

    He underscored the need for the public to recognize that Christianity, introduced by the British, is not as ‘holy’ as claimed. According to him, the traditional religion, as the first on earth, holds a holier status than Christianity.

  • Ghana is losing multinational companies as a result of excessive taxes – PwC Ghana

    Ghana is losing multinational companies as a result of excessive taxes – PwC Ghana

    Tax Partner at PwC Ghana, Abeku Gyan-Quansah, has expressed concern about the excessive tax burden faced by Ghanaian businesses.

    He noted that, as a result of the high taxes, some multinational companies are opting to relocate their core operations outside of Ghana to address the challenge.

    Gyan-Quansah disclosed, “What we have picked up based on our work is that some of these firms have changed their business models by moving core operations outside Ghana to deal with the challenge [high taxes],” he added.

    He emphasized that these businesses are relocating to produce goods or services abroad and then exporting them back to Ghana.

    Highlighting the origin of the tax policies, he clarified that the elevated taxes are not imposed by the International Monetary Fund (IMF) but are part of the Ghanaian government’s own program submitted to the IMF.

    Gyan-Quansah pointed out that, according to the Article IV consultation report by the IMF, there are approximately 27 tax measures outlined by the government to enhance Ghana’s revenue situation.

  • Govt employees without Ghana cards will not receive salaries – Controller

    Govt employees without Ghana cards will not receive salaries – Controller

    In a decisive effort to eliminate ghost names from the public sector, the Controller and Accountant General, Mr. Kwasi Kwaning-Bosompem, has issued a stern warning to workers, indicating that his office is prepared to remove names of individuals who have not linked their Ghana card to the payroll system.

    Addressing the annual conference of the Controller and Accountant-General’s Department in Kumasi, Mr. Kwaning-Bosompem stressed the importance of introducing innovative measures to manage public finances effectively, ensuring the integrity of the payroll system.

    “We have communicated with our payroll members regarding the linkage of their NIA number to the payroll database, a process initiated two years ago. The implementation is now in full force. If you do not possess an NIA card, your pay will soon be disconnected.”

    He emphasized that even if an NIA card is missing, the corresponding number is still on the database.

    The office can cross-check, and if necessary, invite the person for physical validation.COP Maame Yaa Tiwaa Addo-Danquah, the Executive Director of the Economic and Organised Crime Office (EOCO), highlighted the importance of collaborative efforts in combating corruption.

    She expressed concerns about the stagnancy in the Corruption Perception Index over the past four years, urging a collective responsibility to improve the perception of corruption.

    The Ashanti Regional Minister, Simon Osei-Mensah, representing Vice President Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia, commended the department for significant advancements and underscored the importance of technology and innovation in the accounting and finance sector.

  • Former police officer reveals deep secret in Lodge, Freemason and Blood Money

    Former police officer reveals deep secret in Lodge, Freemason and Blood Money

    A former police officer, once affiliated with a Lodge society, has shared startling occurrences that take place within the organization.

    In a viral video circulating on social media, he asserted that men are rarely chosen as sacrificial offerings for monetary gains because they are not as lucrative.

    According to him, women tend to generate more money when used in such rituals.

    Highlighting the hierarchical structure within the Lodge cult, the former member emphasized the superior status of women, attributing their perceived power within the association.

    The informant further disclosed an intriguing anecdote about a female colleague who staunchly refuses to resign from the group, citing an aversion to returning to a life of poverty.

    Delving into the mysterious world of ritualistic money, commonly known as Sakawa, the ex-Lodge member outlined the extensive restrictions involved.

    These include limitations on spending, restrictions on aiding family members, and potential demands for personal sacrifices in exchange for financial benefits.

    The narrative took a chilling turn as the former member recounted the existence of a mirror in his room, revealing a disturbing practice.

    Allegedly, individuals seeking to make sacrifices would mention the intended victim’s name, causing their image to materialize in the mirror.

    The sacrificial act would then be symbolically carried out by striking the mirror with a knife.

  • Woman accused of duping Madina residents with scam story

    Woman accused of duping Madina residents with scam story

    A video making rounds on social media captures the heartbreaking account of a soap seller who claims to have been duped of her entire day’s sales by a group of unknown individuals.

    In the footage, the soap seller recounts how the alleged scammers approached her under the guise of wanting to buy a 50gh soap but claimed to possess 200gh.

    Trustingly, she handed over a balance of 150gh. Just as she was about to receive the 200gh note, an unexpected twist occurred – a woman appeared out of nowhere, expressing interest in buying soap.

    According to the victim, the duo urged her to serve the new customer and assured her that they would wait for their money.

    “Two people stopped me to buy 50gh soap from me, they asked me to give the 150gh because they had 200gh. I gave them and in return they gave me counterfeit. There was another person pressuring to buy from me, those who had my money asked me to serve the woman and get back to them” she stated.

    Falling into the trap, the soap seller proceeded to the new customer, only to discover that the woman had a different preference and didn’t want the soap she was carrying.

    She turned back to take the 200gh from her earlier customers but they were no where to be found.

    “When I got to the woman she said she wanted keysoap instead of the one I was carrying. I turned back to the those who had my money and realized they had left. They took my my money and the soap from me,” she added.

    Meanwhile, social media users have raised suspicions about the legitimacy of her claims

    Some claim she does that to receive money from kind individuals.

  • GAF in search of family of man receiving healthcare at 37 Military hospital

    GAF in search of family of man receiving healthcare at 37 Military hospital

    The Ghana Armed Forces (GAF) has reached out to the public to gather more information about a patient who, until recently, had been referred to as ‘unknown Monday’ at the 37 Military Hospital. 

    The individual has now been identified as Appiah.

    This patient was urgently admitted to the trauma and surgical unit in November of the previous year by an unknown individual.

    Since then, the 37 Military Hospital staff has been tirelessly providing care and support to him.

     Despite their efforts, attempts to trace his family have proven unsuccessful, leaving the hospital with limited information about his background and medical history.

    Speaking to the media, GAF urged anyone with relevant information about Appiah to come forward and assist in filling the gaps regarding his identity and contacts.

    The hospital staff, through their unwavering dedication, has been able to bring him to a point where he is now ready for discharge.

    “He was brought in in November last year by an unknown person through the Trauma and Surgical Emergency Unit and then he was subsequently admitted to the NeuroSurgical Ward. The person who brought him was initially cooperating but along the line stopped. So we have been able to take care of him till a point that he was worthy to go home. 

    “There wasn’t anybody coming so through our Command and the Department of Public Relation we were able to send a picture of him to the social media and then people started coming. Before now he was known as unknown Monday but when his friend showed up he was able to tell that he is called Appiah.

  • Fisheries Commission paid GHS695,441 to Gumah and Sons Limited for no work done – Auditor-General report

    Fisheries Commission paid GHS695,441 to Gumah and Sons Limited for no work done – Auditor-General report

    A report dated December 31, 2022, from the Auditor General’s (AG) Office has exposed irregularities involving a contracting firm, Gumah & Sons, which received a payment exceeding GHS2.8 million, despite initially being awarded a GHS2.1 million contract by the Fisheries Commission.

    The unexplained over-payment, totaling almost GHS700,000, has raised concerns regarding financial oversight and accountability.

    “Contrary to Regulation 78 of the Public Financial Management Regulations, 2019 (L.I. 2378), our review of procurement documents disclosed that, the Fisheries Commission awarded a contract in the sum of GH¢2,133,995.48 to Gumah and Sons Limited for the supply of eight Pick-up vehicles. However, we noted during examination of payment vouchers that the Head of Finance paid the supplier a total amount of GH¢2,829,436.00 on 26 November 2021 and 26 April 2022 resulting in overpayment of GH¢695,440.52,” parts of the report read.

    During the examination, the AG noted that 111 payment vouchers, amounting to GH¢3,087,943.39 and disbursed between April 2021 and December 2022, were not presented for audit review.

    Consequently, the AG recommended that the Chief Director ensures the Executive Director initiates the recovery of the GH¢3,087,943.39 from the Head of Accounts.

    “We noted during our review that 111 payment vouchers used in disbursing GH¢3,087,943.39 between April 2021 and December 2022 were not presented for audit review.

    It added that due to the absence of these payment vouchers, the Chief Director to ensure that the Executive Director initiates the recovery of the GH¢3,087,943.39 from the Head of Accounts.

    It instructed that the amount should be promptly deposited into the AG’s Recoveries Account at the Bank of Ghana.

    Failure to comply with the directive, it stated, may result in the direct recovery of the amount from the Executive Director.

    “In the absence of the payment vouchers we recommended that the Chief Director should ensure that the Executive Director recovers the amount of GH¢3,087,943.39 from the Head of Accounts and pay same into the Auditor General’s Recoveries Account at Bank of Ghana, failing which the amount should be recovered from the Executive Director”, it added.

    Report_of_the_Auditor-General_on_the_Public_Accounts_of_Ghana_–_Ministries_Departments_and_other_Agencies_for_the_year_ended_31_December_2022Download
  • Excessive taxes forcing employers lay off employees – GNCCI

    Excessive taxes forcing employers lay off employees – GNCCI

    The CEO of the Ghana National Chamber of Commerce and Industry (GNCCI), Mark Badu-Aboagye, has expressed concern over the increasing collapse of businesses due to a multitude of taxes, leading to widespread layoffs.

    Mr Badu-Aboagye highlighted the chamber members’ struggles, stating that economic challenges are forcing companies to downsize their workforce.

    He emphasized the discontent among employers with the current economic conditions.

    During an appearance on PM Express, he called for government intervention to alleviate the financial burden on businesses, emphasizing the need to reduce operational costs for sustained viability.

    He shared a specific example, stating, “One of our workers had over 125 workers somewhere last year, but now he has abandoned some of the work he was doing. He will eventually shutdown some of his plants because it is difficult to meet up with some of the demands from these employees”, he narrated.

    “As of the third quarter of 2023, the growth of GDP was 2%. And when you look at the details you will realise that most of the sectors are not doing well. Consistently from the beginning of the year to now. The industry sector has recorded negative growth. It’s only in the last quarter that the manufacturing sector recorded a 2% growth. So it shows clearly that businesses are not doing well”.

    “If they are doing well, they produce a lot and by multiplying it by the market value, you will see that your GDP [Gross Domestic Product] will go higher. So it’s not far-fetched, if the government wants to know the state of businesses in Ghana, just check the GDP.” he said.

    Badu-Aboagye further underscored the consistent negative growth in the industry sector throughout 2023, revealing the broader challenges faced by businesses.

    He pointed out that as of the third quarter of 2023, the GDP growth was only 2%, with most sectors facing difficulties.

    He concluded by asserting, “It shows clearly that businesses are not doing well. If the government wants to understand the state of businesses in Ghana, they can simply check the GDP. The manufacturing sector only recorded a 2% growth in the last quarter, indicating the overall struggle faced by businesses.”

  • Captain Smart wants me dead – Lawyer Maurice Ampaw

    Captain Smart wants me dead – Lawyer Maurice Ampaw

    Legal practitioner Maurice Ampaw has accused radio host Captain Smart, of wanting him dead.

    During an interview on Kasapa FM, he claimed that Captain Smart bears such intense animosity towards him, leading to a desire for his demise.

    Drawing on a past incident involving the death of a Ghanaian lawyer Anthony Akoto Ampaw, Mr Ampaw disclosed that during that period, some people had wished for his own demise.

    Lawyer Ampaw, who claims to possess spiritual insight, attributed Captain Smart’s hostility to an inability to handle the truth, suggesting that the media personality is influenced by demonic forces.

    “What have I done that when I ask for forgiveness will not be granted. Those protesting that I am dealt with are a lot. I have seen that when you hate someone they wish you are dead. When Akoto Apaw died some people were wishing it was me. Captain Smart ,Afrifa, Kelvin Taylor and others want me dead.

    “Captain Smart doesn’t like it because he can’t handle the truth. He is possessed by a lot of demons that speak through him. I know that because I can see spiritually. That is why he doesn’t respect me. Captain Smart is pushing that the chiefs deal with me, meanwhile he has been disrespectful to Otumfuor, the police and others,” he added. 

    He stated that Captain Smart is pushing so hard that the Kumasi chiefs deal with him drastically.

    According to him, the one who needs to be dealt with by the law is Captain Smart, because he has shown gross disrespect at Asantehene, Otumfuo Osei Tutu II, the Ghana police and other dignitaries.

    The Divisional Heads of the Kumasi Traditional Council recently expressed their displeasure regarding the alleged use of two Kumasi-based radio stations owned by Chairman Wontumi by Maurice Ampaw to criticize chiefs in the Ashanti region.

    Both individuals were summoned to appear before the Council on Monday, January 29, 2024.

    “I am using this platform to tell Nananom (chiefs) that if my utterances were extreme and they see it as very offensive, I retract and apologize.

    “I believe that let Asanteman move on, there is so much to do in the Ashanti Region and there is so much at stake in this political area and my love for Bawumia and NPP still stands.
    “It is my prayer that we all support Chairman Wontumi to bring victory to the party and also support Otumfuo to bring development to the Ashanti Region and Ghana as a whole,” he said in an interview on Asempa FM.

    Mr. Ampaw recalled an incident where he felt referenced in a derogatory manner by one of the Chiefs.

    During an interview on Kasapa FM on Thursday, January 25, Mr. Ampaw emphasized that he will not take such comments lightly and is contemplating pursuing a class action lawsuit.


    Meanwhile, Mr Ampaw has issued an apology to the Chiefs of the Ashanti region, retracting one of his earlier statements he deemed extreme.

  • NPP female MPs are losing elections because most women don’t participate in DLEs – NALAG

    NPP female MPs are losing elections because most women don’t participate in DLEs – NALAG

    The National Association of Local Authorities of Ghana (NALAG) has attributed the recent loss of female incumbent Members of Parliament (MP) to the limited participation of women in district-level elections.

    NALAG contended that societal biases, viewing women as unfit for political roles, significantly contribute to the recurrent defeat of women in both national and district-level polls.

    This observation follows the New Patriotic Party parliamentary primaries on January 27, 2024, where 28 incumbent MPs, notably including female representatives like Adwoa Safo, MP for the Dome Kwabenya constituency, were unsuccessful in their reelection bids.

    “I think that the assembly level should be a training ground to aspire to higher political office, and so in a situation where we have 14.5% in the 2020 elections as female MPs who were elected to parliament and today we are seeing the numbers decrease from what we experienced in 2020, then we ought to be alarmed. We may not even get 14% in the national parliament and that is very worrying.”

    “As of now, we have not been able to kill the stereotype and the prejudices we have against women when it comes to leadership. However, leadership must take decisive action to implement Affirmative Action.”

    The gender disparity extended to the district-level elections, with only 4.1% of elected officials being women, while men constituted a dominant 95.9%.

    NALAG’s General Secretary, Kokro Amankwah, emphasized the importance of district-level elections as a foundational step in women’s political involvement, expressing concern about the declining numbers of female MPs.

    Mr Amankwah highlighted the need to challenge stereotypes and prejudices against women in leadership roles.

    He stressed that while the district level might pose challenges, the political landscape should become more favorable for women as they ascend the ranks.

    In response to the situation, NALAG and the Network for Women’s Rights are urging President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo to appoint 60% women to the Metropolitan, Municipal, and District Assemblies.

    They advocate for decisive action, including the implementation of Affirmative Action, to address gender imbalances in leadership roles. The Local Government Act, 2016 (Act 936), allows the president to appoint 30% of Assembly members, with the remaining 70% elected.

  • Ghanaian footballer, Raphael Dwamena to be buried Feb 16

    Ghanaian footballer, Raphael Dwamena to be buried Feb 16

    The final funeral rites for Ghanaian football star Raphael Dwamena, who passed away in Albania, are set to occur on Friday, February 16, 2024.

    The ceremony will be held at the Adjirigano Astro Turf in Accra.

    Raphael Dwamena, aged 28, faced a heart condition, leading to the insertion of a defibrillator. However, in 2022, he made a ‘personal decision’ to remove it.

    The tragic incident occurred on Saturday, November 11, 2023, when he suffered cardiac failure during a game for KF Egnatia against Partizani in the Albanian league, leading to his untimely death in the 24th minute.

    Known for his talent, Dwamena made his international debut for the Black Stars of Ghana on June 11, 2017, in a match against Ethiopia.

  • 64% of Ghanaian employees are stressed due to low incomes – Report

    64% of Ghanaian employees are stressed due to low incomes – Report

    The 2023 Old Mutual Financial Services Monitor has disclosed that 64% of employed Ghanaians are facing financial stress, especially those with lower incomes (below GH¢3,000 per month) and those engaged in the informal sector.

    A significant 55% reported earning less than pre-2022 or recession levels.

    Instead of relying on personal savings, the majority (61%) turned to personal loans or borrowed from formal financial institutions to cover expenses.

    The report highlighted that 54% depend on personal savings as a source of income.

    Although only 10% sought loans from financial service providers, 24% borrowed from friends/family, and an additional 12% from a Susu.

    “In an effort to make ends meet, 61% have dipped into their savings. 54% rely on their personal savings as a source of income.

    “The incidence of taking out a loan from a financial services provider is low at 10%, but consumers are turning to other sources of borrowing – 24% have borrowed from friends/family, and a further 12% have borrowed from a Susu”.

    The report revealed that just over half of Ghanaian consumers are currently earning less than a year ago, predating the recession in September 2022.

    Consumer confidence in the Ghanaian economy is low, with less than one in six expressing confidence.

    Despite economic challenges, over 90% of Ghanaians believe their financial situation will improve in the next six months.

    The report attributes the tough economic environment to global and African factors such as poverty, debt, and rising food prices, impacting consumers worldwide and in Africa. The escalating cost of living has added pressure and eroded consumer buying power.

    The Old Mutual Financial Services Monitor aims to understand the financial behavior, perceptions, and attitudes of the working population in Ghana, offering a consumer perspective to economic data.

  • Regional Maritime University to build first boat in June

    Regional Maritime University to build first boat in June

    The Managing Director of Lamar Marine Services, Mohamed Saleh Alshareef, an agency affiliated with the Regional Maritime University (RMU), has revealed plans for the university to commence boat construction in June.

    This initiative stems from a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) inked last year between RMU and the Dubai-based company specializing in boat building, firefighting, and oil rigs.

    The boat, crafted from lightweight and robust fibreglass, is intended for the Ghanaian and West African markets, serving purposes such as monitoring, security, and fishing. The facility responsible for constructing the boat will be situated on RMU premises.

    Alshareef disclosed this information during a presentation to a delegation from the Dar Es Salaam Maritime Institute (DMI), Tanzania, and RMU management in Accra.

    He underscored Lamar Marine’s 40+ years of industry experience and expressed confidence in creating a “masterpiece” for the benefit of future generations.

    The presentation also highlighted collaborative partnerships enhancing RMU’s maritime training offerings. Maurice Mends from Rig World Training Center detailed their two-year collaboration with RMU, focusing on equipping graduates with practical skills for success in the global maritime sector.

    Emphasizing their dedication to safety, Mends praised RMU for shaping the future of maritime training in Ghana.

    Ing. Augustus Addy-Lamptey, representing Hafnia Shipping, stressed the significance of investing in seafarer training to meet the high demand for personnel. He announced a partnership with RMU to place trained seafarers on ships, contributing to the industry’s growth.

    Capt. Joshua Addo, representing Schulte Maritime Service, highlighted their company’s long history since 1883 and ownership of over 90 vessels. He expressed their commitment to collaborating with RMU to train cadets and provide employment opportunities.

    The three-day visit concluded with an MoU signing on Friday, followed by a tour of locations within Accra for the visiting delegation.

  • Ayorkor Botchwey joins race for Commonwealth Secretary General post

    Ayorkor Botchwey joins race for Commonwealth Secretary General post


    The Minister for Foreign Affairs and Regional Integration, Shirley Ayorkor Botchwey, has officially announced her candidacy for the position of Secretary-General of the Commonwealth.

    This declaration was made public through a press release issued by the Ministry on February 2, 2024.

    President Nana Add Dankwa Akufo-Addo nominated Minister Botchwey, citing an agreement among Commonwealth members that the next Secretary-General would be selected from Africa.

    The election for the new Secretary-General of the 56-member organization is scheduled for October 22, 2024, during the Commonwealth Heads of Government Meeting (CHOGM) in Samoa.

    “On an understanding among members of the Commonwealth that its next Secretary-General would come from Africa.”

    “A new Secretary-General of the 56-member organization will be elected on 22nd October 2024 at the Commonwealth Heads of Government Meeting (CHOGM) in Samoa to replace Baroness Patricia Scotland, a dual Dominican-British citizen, whose second and final tenure expires at the end of 2024.”

    “I have strong confidence in Foreign Minister Botchwey to lead our aspiration for renewal and for building future-looking resilient and thriving economies, through community cooperation and action, as underscored at Kigali in Rwanda, during the 26th Commonwealth Heads of Government Meeting (CHOGM).”

    This election aims to replace Baroness Patricia Scotland, a dual Dominican-British citizen, whose second and final term concludes at the end of 2024.

    President Akufo-Addo expressed his confidence in Foreign Minister Botchwey’s ability to lead the Commonwealth towards renewal and the development of resilient and thriving economies, referencing the commitment made at the 26th Commonwealth Heads of Government Meeting (CHOGM) in Kigali, Rwanda.

    Minister Botchwey is optimistic about her candidacy, having received endorsements from the African Union and substantial support from across all regions of the Commonwealth.

  • Sehwi Wenchi: Husband assaults wife with cutlass over cheating

    A 51-year-old farmer, Yaw Takyi, is accused of causing cutlass wounds to his wife, Martha Takyi, following suspicions of infidelity after 25 years of marriage and eight children.

    This distressing incident occurred in Sehwi Wenchi, within the Bibiani Anhwiaso Bekwai Municipality of the Western North Region.

    Yaw Ernest, a Unit Committee member in Sehwi Wenchi, was alerted to the situation by the commotion from residents. Upon arriving at the scene, he discovered Martha Takyi drenched in blood.

    Confirming the attack, Martha informed Ernest that her husband had assaulted her with a machete.

    In response, Ernest promptly arranged transportation and transported the victim to Bibiani Government Hospital for necessary medical attention. Meanwhile, the alleged assailant has been apprehended and handed over to the police for further investigation.

  • Until our concerns are addressed, we won’t stop striking – Senior staff of universities

    Until our concerns are addressed, we won’t stop striking – Senior staff of universities

    The Senior Staff Association of Ghana is relying on the government’s cooperation to address specific proposals before considering the termination of their ongoing strike.

    The discussions took place during a meeting held on Thursday, February 1, between the parties involved.

    For over a week, the association, in collaboration with the Tertiary Education Workers Union of Ghana (TEWUG), has been on strike, citing the government’s failure to resolve issues related to their pensions as the cause.

    The National Chairman of the association, Isaac Donkoh, emphasized that the strike will persist until the government fulfills their demands. He explained, “The Association or the unions have made some proposals to the government. The government has taken it in good faith, and they will get back to us in a few days… Until then, the strike is still on. So if they are able to work it out fast, it is better for all of us.”

  • ECG to tackle over-billing issues by visiting homes to read meters

    ECG to tackle over-billing issues by visiting homes to read meters

    The Electricity Company of Ghana (ECG) is set to implement a spot-billing system to tackle challenges related to over-billing caused by non-reading of customers’ bills, leading to inaccurate estimations.

    As per a press statement dated February 2, 2024, ECG outlined that the initiative involves the introduction of a new reading meter, capable of capturing customers’ electricity consumption and seamlessly integrating it into the central ECG database.

    This system aims to facilitate instantaneous billing, preventing errors and over payments.

    ECG reassured all customers that this approach will effectively address issues related to over billing and inaccurate bill estimations.

    Customers are encouraged to collaborate with this initiative to ensure the efficacy of the new system.

  • Dr Grace Boadu’s family happy about her death because she did not help any of them – Captain Caesar reveals

    Dr Grace Boadu’s family happy about her death because she did not help any of them – Captain Caesar reveals

    TikTok user, Captain Caesar has made a claim suggesting that the family of the founder of Gracegift Herbal Clinic, late Dr. Grace Boadu, is happy with her demise.

    According to him, this perceived satisfaction is based on the assertion that Dr. Boadu did not extend assistance to any of her relatives.

    Dr Boadu, a prominent herbal medicine practitioner, was discovered dead in her bathroom at her Tantra Hills residence in Accra on Monday, January 29, 2024.

    Captain Caesar claims that Dr. Grace Boadu, acquired her wealth through unconventional means, suggesting that she went as far as exchanging her womb.

    According to Captain Caesar, Dr. Grace Boadu’s decision not to get married was influenced by the interference of her spiritual husband, who allegedly fought off all potential suitors.

    “The secret behind is blood money because of greediness she exchanged her womb for wealth. Due to that all her suitors couldn’t marry her, if not why would a wealthy nice lady like not be married at her age. That’s how a lot of rich Ghanaian women are spiritually married. I know most of them,” he stated.

    Contrary to reports citing a bathroom fall as the cause of her death, Captain Caesar asserts that she actually died as a result of a ritual.

    He further elaborated that when Dr. Grace’s body was discovered, she was lying on a red cloth, and candles lit around her.

    Captain Caesar contended that the true circumstances surrounding her death have been manipulated, insinuating that the family is attempting to conceal a secret.

    “There’s one Ghanaian actress who is like that but I won’t mention her name.Her family does not want to tell you the truth. The first person who saw her dead did not see her in the bathroom. That person lied, she was clothed in a red cloth with candles around her. The family do not want to speak the truth. They are even happy because she is dead because they didn’t benefit from her wealth when she was alive,” he added.

    https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=o5VSRVZcgaQ
  • Dr Grace Boadu was actually found on a red cloth with candles around her – Man claims

    Dr Grace Boadu was actually found on a red cloth with candles around her – Man claims

    A Tiktoker, Captain Caesar has asserted that the esteemed herbal medicine practitioner, Dr. Grace Boadu, was discovered lying on a red cloth with candles strategically placed around her at the time of her passing.

    According to him, she was in the middle of a ritual when she passed away.

    Reports indicate that the founder of the Grace Gift Herbal Clinic was discovered dead in her bathroom at her Tantra Hills residence in Accra on Monday, January 29, 2024.

    “The secret behind is blood money because of greediness she exchanged her womb for wealth. Due to that all her suitors couldn’t marry her, if not why would a wealthy nice lady like not be married at her age. That’s how a lot of rich Ghanaian women are spiritually married. I know most of them,” he stated.  

    Captain Caesar contended that the true circumstances surrounding her death have been manipulated, insinuating that the family is attempting to conceal a secret.

    “Her family does not want to tell you the truth. The first person who saw her dead did not see her in the bathroom. That person lied, she was clothed in a red cloth with candles around her. Her family do not want to speak the truth. They are even happy because she is dead because they didn’t benefit from her wealth when she was alive,” he added.

    https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=o5VSRVZcgaQ
  • Dr Grace Boadu exchanged her womb for money, that is why she could not get married – Man alleges

    Dr Grace Boadu exchanged her womb for money, that is why she could not get married – Man alleges

    A TikTok user known as Captain Caesar has leveled allegations against the founder of Gracegift Herbal Clinic, late Dr. Grace Boadu.

    Dr Boadu, a prominent herbal medicine practitioner, was discovered dead in her bathroom at her Tantra Hills residence in Accra on Monday, January 29, 2024.

    Captain Caesar claims that Dr. Grace Boadu, acquired her wealth through unconventional means, suggesting that she went as far as exchanging her womb.

    According to Captain Caesar, Dr. Grace Boadu’s decision not to get married was influenced by the interference of her spiritual husband, who allegedly fought off all potential suitors.

    “The secret behind is blood money because of greediness she exchanged her womb for wealth. Due to that all her suitors couldn’t marry her, if not why would a wealthy nice lady like not be married at her age. That’s how a lot of rich Ghanaian women are spiritually married. I know most of them,” he stated.

    Contrary to reports citing a bathroom fall as the cause of her death, Captain Caesar asserts that she actually died as a result of a ritual.

    He further elaborated that when Dr. Grace’s body was discovered, she was lying on a red cloth, and candles lit around her.

    Captain Caesar contended that the true circumstances surrounding her death have been manipulated, insinuating that the family is attempting to conceal a secret.

    “There’s one Ghanaian actress who is like that but I won’t mention her name.Her family does not want to tell you the truth. The first person who saw her dead did not see her in the bathroom. That person lied, she was clothed in a red cloth with candles around her. The family do not want to speak the truth. They are even happy because she is dead because they didn’t benefit from her wealth when she was alive,” he added.

    https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=o5VSRVZcgaQ
  • Uncircumcised men reportedly more prone to infections

    Uncircumcised men reportedly more prone to infections

    The National Vice President of trained Wanzam operators in Ghana, Akua Afriyie Nkrumah, has outlined the potential risks associated with not undergoing circumcision.

    She pointed out that uncircumcised men face a higher susceptibility to Sexually Transmitted Diseases (STDs).

    Mrs. Nkrumah’s comments were prompted by the 2022 Demographic Health Survey from the Ghana Statistical Service, which disclosed that approximately 5 percent of Ghanaian men remain uncircumcised, accounting for around 835,000 individuals.

    During an interview on Adom FM’s morning show, Dwaso Nsem, Mrs. Nkrumah emphasized that aside from the increased risk of STDs, uncircumcised men are prone to phimosis, penile cancer, and urinary tract infections.

    She advised against having multiple partners, as this further elevates the risk of infections and their transmission.

    Mrs. Nkrumah also addressed the psychological impact of the decision not to undergo circumcision, noting that the procedure is possible in adulthood.

    She shared her experience of performing circumcision on a 56-year-old man, emphasizing that there was no observable difference, encouraging men not to be discouraged by age if considering the procedure.

  • Manhyia North: Defeated NPP aspirant takes delegates to antoa

    Manhyia North: Defeated NPP aspirant takes delegates to antoa

    Around 20 delegates affiliated with the New Patriotic Party (NPP) in the Manhyia North constituency are reportedly feeling uneasy after accepting money from a parliamentary aspirant during the recent primaries but choosing not to vote for him.

    This comes after the irate aspirant, Richard Osei Bamfo, demanded a reimbursement of his funds, threatening potential repercussions from the formidable river deity, ‘Antoa Nyamaa,’ for a breach of contract.

    Reports indicate that the delegates received amounts ranging from GH¢1000 to GH¢2000 from the aspirant prior to the elections.

    However, during a press conference, the contested delegates argued that Mr. Bamfo had generously provided the money for their transportation, expressing confusion over his insistence on a refund.

    Nevertheless, Mr. Bamfo is said to have called on any delegate who fails to return the money to face the consequences of ‘Antoa Nyamaa.’

  • You sell your bodies for GHS50 yet you criticize Jackie Appiah – Sally Mann shades others

    You sell your bodies for GHS50 yet you criticize Jackie Appiah – Sally Mann shades others

    Outspoken entertainment pundit, Sally Mann, has strongly criticized individuals within the movie industry who are accusing renowned actress Jackie Appiah of resorting to prostitution to amass her wealth.

    Mann asserted that there are actresses in the Ghana movie industry who engage in sexual activities with prominent figures for a mere GH¢50, yet they audaciously criticize Jackie Appiah, who has diligently worked to achieve her current status.

    Expressing her disappointment, Sally Mann called out actresses who remain silent amid the accusations against Jackie Appiah, suggesting that such individuals harbor envy towards her success and accomplishments.

    During an interview with Power FM, as reported by GhanaWeb, Mann condemned the critics of Jackie Appiah, emphasizing that they are attempting to tarnish the hard-earned reputation she has cultivated over many years.

    Mann challenged other actresses to openly deny any involvement in sexual affairs with influential individuals, daring them to refute the accusations. She highlighted the efforts made by Jackie Appiah, applauding the support from figures like Randy Abbey and Prince David Osei.

    Referring to some colleagues in the film industry, Mann claimed that envy is driving criticism against Jackie, citing instances where individuals allegedly engage in sexual activities with influential figures for minimal financial gain, contrasting it with Jackie’s success in business ventures.

    These comments from Mann follow concerns raised by some individuals about the source of Jackie Appiah’s wealth, with speculations suggesting that her acting career alone cannot account for her financial success. As of now, Jackie Appiah has not responded publicly to these allegations.

    “Which actress can beat their chest and say that they have not had a sexual affair with any big man? I’m daring them to come out and refute it. They are tagging Jackie Appiah as a prostitute. These people have seen the work the girl has put in but it took Randy Abbey, who is a politician and a male actor, Prince David Osei to boldly come and defend the girl.

    “I’m talking about her colleague actresses who are not defending her public except for a few ones. Most of her colleagues are jealous of her due to her business ventures and wealth. I know some people in the film industry who have sexual intercourse with big men for GH¢50 yet they are criticizing Jackie for getting a mansion and attributing it to prostitution,” she said.

  • Farmers to receive rehabilitated farms from COCOBOD

    Farmers to receive rehabilitated farms from COCOBOD

    The Ghana Cocoa Board (COCOBOD) is set to officially transfer rehabilitated farms across cocoa regions to farmers next month, aiming to boost cocoa production and increase annual cocoa stocks for higher farmer incomes.

    At the launch of the 2024 National Chocolate Week Celebration in Accra, Emmanuel Ray Ankrah, Deputy CEO of COCOBOD, spoke about the importance of productivity enhancement programs like pruning and mass-spraying to ensure cocoa production growth.

    Despite challenges such as illegal mining and climate change contributing to cocoa bean shortages, Mr. Ankrah highlighted COCOBOD’s success in productivity initiatives over the past seven years.

    He emphasized the commitment to promoting local cocoa consumption and supporting small-scale processors for innovation and diversification.

    The focus on the youth as a potential market, initiatives like Chocolate City, and nationwide campaigns aim to raise awareness about cocoa’s nutritional benefits and cultural significance.

    COCOBOD’s efforts since 2017 have increased local cocoa processing, with a goal to raise per capita consumption from 0.45kg to at least 1kg within a 5–7-year period.

    Mr. Ankrah stressed the need to consolidate gains and cited Europe and the Americas as benchmarks for further growth in Ghana’s cocoa industry.

  • We will increase transport fares due to government’s decision to implement emissions tax – GPRTU

    We will increase transport fares due to government’s decision to implement emissions tax – GPRTU

    The Ghana Private Road Transport Union (GPRTU) is considering a fare increase in response to the implementation of the Emissions Levy Act, 2023 (Act 1112).

    Despite the earlier suspension of a 20 percent fare hike in January, the government proceeded with the emissions levy tax aimed at reducing carbon emissions from vehicles.

    In dissatisfaction with the emissions levy tax, the GPRTU plans to transfer the levy cost to passengers.

    The spokesperson for GPRTU, Abass Imoro, revealed that despite engaging in discussions with the Transport and Finance Ministries, the tax was still implemented, compounding their existing challenges.

    Speaking to JoyNews, Imoro explained, “Fortunately for us, the government took that meeting seriously. We met with the Finance Minister and the Transport Minister as well. This particular issue was put to the Finance Minister who accepted to do something about it.

    “So we said we are already paying 10% on the little fuel we buy in the name of sanitation and pollution. Just unfortunately, the same pollution name has been changed and slapped us with the same issue again. 

    “We explained to him and he said if that is the issue, then, of course, he will look at what to do about it. So if nothing has been done and today the implementation has taken place, we won’t say much than to add it to our new fares we are working on,” Mr Moro said. 

    Simultaneously, the Okada Riders Association of Ghana expressed their intent to petition the Ghana Revenue Authority (GRA) against what they view as an unfair imposition of an emission levy.

    Unaware of the levy, the association emphasized the necessity for government engagement to gauge its favorability.

    They stressed the substantial impact of the tax on their finances and called for the government to address their concerns.

    “I’m paying my insurance and that is not the only amount a person [Okada rider] who is using a motorbike is going to be paying every year. 

    “He’s also going to pay his insurance, pay his roadworks and other things. When they call us, we will be able to tell them that no, this is too much for them. Let’s do it this way,” the association said.

  • Government is being insensitive, there’s no way emission levy will curb carbon emission – ACEP

    Government is being insensitive, there’s no way emission levy will curb carbon emission – ACEP

    The Executive Director of the Africa Centre for Energy Policy (ACEP), Benjamin Boakye, has argued that the newly introduced vehicle tax will not effectively reduce carbon emissions.

    Boakye contended that the implementation of the Emissions Levy Act, 2023 (Act 1112), is not only insufficient in curbing carbon emissions but may also lead people to evade paying the tax.

    Mr Boakye asserted that the introduced levy is unlikely to deter individuals from driving and suggested that the government is aware of this fact.

    He pointed out that the tax might not result in environmental benefits as Ghanaians will still need to move from one place to another, inevitably generating carbon emissions.

    “They know clearly that it’s not about carbon. This is not going to prevent anybody from driving. They know you don’t have a choice. You will have to pay for it. The carbon will still be generated because the Ghanaian will have to move from one point to the other. There’s no way you are going to prevent people from polluting.”

    “So, if you now say that after taking all those taxes, the road fund tax and all of it, you still want to now find ways around the same transportation value chain to tax them, you are not just being sensitive to the same Ghanaian who is driving and has no option but to drive. You find ways to tax them at all cost that is not being sensitive.”

    According to him, the government’s approach appears opportunistic, using increased taxation as a means to generate revenue without addressing the core issue of carbon emissions.

    He suggested that if the government aims to raise tax revenue, it should consider implementing taxes on specific activities rather than introducing a new vehicle tax.

    Additionally, Mr Boakye highlights that drivers already face taxes on the fuel they purchase for their vehicles.

    He expressed concern that layering additional taxes on the transportation value chain without offering viable alternatives is insensitive to Ghanaians who have no choice but to drive.

    In the backdrop of these concerns, the Ghana Revenue Authority (GRA) has announced the commencement of the Emissions Levy Act, 2023 (Act 1112) from February 1, 2024.

    The Act imposes a levy on carbon dioxide equivalent emissions from internal combustion engine vehicles, aligning with the government’s commitment to addressing greenhouse gas emissions.

  • Emission tax: We already pay taxes at the end of each year, introducing a new one will not be fair – Okada riders lament

    Emission tax: We already pay taxes at the end of each year, introducing a new one will not be fair – Okada riders lament

    The President of the Okada Riders Association of Ghana has raised concerns about the emission tax, deeming it a form of double taxation.

    Michael Kofi Owusu pointed out that with the existing 40 pesewas per gallon charge every time they purchase fuel, the new tax would essentially double their tax burden.

    Speaking on JoyNews on February 1, Mr. Owusu criticized the government for what he perceived as unjust treatment, introducing an additional emission tax. He questioned the fairness of maintaining the existing 10% charge at the pump alongside the newly proposed annual levy.

    Mr. Owusu expressed frustration, stating, “Government is not fair to us, the fairness we are talking about is that already there is some ten per cent we pay when we go to the pump, are you going to abolish it or it will still be there and still maintain the annual levy?

    “Do we have a daily levy for pollution and annual tax as well? Every day we buy fuel which means we are paying 40 pesewas per gallon. I cannot use one gallon to work the whole day so it means that the government is taking more than GH₵2.00 from me. “

    Highlighting the financial impact on Okada riders, he emphasized that they already pay yearly taxes, and the introduction of the emissions tax would further strain their finances.

    Mr. Owusu conveyed disappointment with the government’s taxation approach, particularly the imposition of what he perceives as double taxation, compounding the financial challenges faced by Okada riders.

  • DCOP Lydia Donkor now chairperson for GFA’s Safety Committee

    DCOP Lydia Donkor now chairperson for GFA’s Safety Committee

    The Director-General of the Police Professional Standards Bureau (PPSB), DCOP Lydia Donkor, has assumed the role of Chairperson for the Security Committee of the Ghana Football Association (GFA).

    Aside from leading the Police Ladies Football Club, DCOP Donkor, a seasoned lawyer with 24 years of experience, boasts a distinguished career.

    She holds a Master of Law degree from the University of Leeds and a qualifying degree from the Ghana School of Law.

    Leveraging her extensive expertise in crowd control and public safety, DCOP Donkor is poised to champion initiatives ensuring the safety and security of spectators, players, and officials during matches.

    Nick Owusu (Capt. Retd.), a FIFA and CAF Safety and Security officer with a decade of experience covering games for both organizations, will serve as the Vice Chairman of the Committee.

    The Committee’s membership also includes Emmanuel Osei, Felix Bewu, and Ebo Hagan.

  • Sam George blows alarm over ‘disinfectant’ being imported for GWCL to treat water

    Sam George blows alarm over ‘disinfectant’ being imported for GWCL to treat water

    The Member of Parliament for Ningo Prampram, Sam Nartey George, has accused the government of importing a water treatment product called One Drop for use by the Ghana Water Company Limited (GWCL), allegedly in place of the traditional chlorine.

    According to George, the One Drop product, set to arrive in the country in two weeks, was approved as a disinfectant but not specifically for water treatment by Ghana’s regulatory bodies.

    He claimed that the initiative was started by the former Minister for Sanitation and Water Resources, Cecilia Dapaah.

    “In 1908, the colonial government introduced chlorine into the treatment of water in Ghana and chlorine is being used all over the world without a problem. All of a sudden somebody wakes up and decides that a product that has been refused by the UK and USA, which is of Norwegian origin but it is not being used by the people of Norway, is fit for use in Ghana.

    “This whole thing started under the former Minister for Sanitation and Water Resources, Cecilia Dapaah and now, in about two weeks, the first shipment of the product called One Drop is arriving in Ghana and the Ghana Water Company is buying it to stop the use of chlorine in the treatment of our water” he said.

    During an interview on Metro TV on February 1, 2024, George questioned the safety and efficacy of One Drop.

    He argued that chlorine, a long-standing water treatment agent, has proven effective, while One Drop has been rejected by the UK and USA. George expressed concerns about potential risks to the health and environment of Ghanaians.

    “So far, it’s been checked by CRIR, EPA and the FDA but it was checked when they brought it in and approved it as a disinfectant. So as we speak today, the product is being used for cleaning in hospitals and also in Kotoka during the COVID,” he added.

    “Chlorine has served us well. Even with that, we are still dealing with some level of contamination in our water. Now you are going to bring a product where the country in which the product is being manufactured, has not approved its use in the purification of its water,” he added.

    Contrarily, Richard Ahiagba, the Director of Communication for the New Patriotic Party (NPP), refuted the claim, stating that GWCL is not transitioning away from chlorine in water treatment.

  • Chief priest of Antoa refuses to lift curses placed by Wontumi on Kokoso chief – Report

    Chief priest of Antoa refuses to lift curses placed by Wontumi on Kokoso chief – Report

    The Chief Priest of the Antoa Nyamaa ‘deity,’ tasked with reversing the curses placed on Nana Kwaku Duah, Chief of Kokoso, by Bernard Antwi Boasiko (Chairman Wontumi), the Ashanti regional Chairman of the New Patriotic Party (NPP), has refused to perform the necessary rituals.

    This comes after Chairman Wontumi denied the allegations made against him by Nana Kwaku Duah regarding disparaging comments about Asantehene Otumfuo Osei II.

    Wontumi’s denial, presented to the Antoa shrine dispute resolution Chiefs, created an impression of resolution by the Kumasi Traditional Council (KTC), which Nana Kwaku Duah and the Chief Priest found unsatisfactory.

    Otumfuo’s Brempong, Nana Kwaku Duah, maintained that Wontumi had made the disparaging statement before about 40 people in the vetting room.

    The Antoa Nyamaa Chief Priest, expressing discomfort with the handling of the case by the Kumasi Traditional Council (KTC), refused to reverse the curse, citing a lack of full disclosure of the truth during the unsatisfactory resolution at Manhyia Palace on January 29, 2024.

    The Chief Priest directed the delegation to go back and resolve the case again, urging the guilty party to confess for forgiveness.

    Following the Chief Priest’s decision, some individuals in the delegation knelt to beg Nana Kwaku Duah to allow the Chief Priest to reverse the curses. However, he objected, insisting that the entire truth must be revealed to vindicate his initial stance on the matter.

    The delegation included Bernard Antwi Boasiako, Nana Nkansah Boadu (Agric Nzemahene), Nana Kwaku Duah (Chief of Kokoso), and Baffour Kantankrakyi (Otumfuo’s linguist).

  • 15% of farms in Ghana are operating for personal use and not for commercial gain – Report

    15% of farms in Ghana are operating for personal use and not for commercial gain – Report

    C-Energy Global Holdings reports that only 15.0% of farms in Ghana are classified as commercialized.

    Their report, titled “Creating Agriculture Financing Schemes for Sustainable Agriculture and Food Security,” further reveals that a mere 4.0% of total bank lending in Ghana has been directed towards agriculture over the last five years.

    The report identifies key challenges impeding the agriculture sector, including low mechanization, inadequate farm recordkeeping, deficient rural transportation infrastructure, and post-harvest losses.

    These challenges not only affect the sector’s performance but also hinder financial support. Agriculture portfolios are typically thin across all financier groups.

    “Agriculture however remains rain fed and on a subsistence basis with only 15% of farms in Ghana commercialized. Low mechanization, poor farm record keeping, inadequate storage & processing capacities, poor rural transportation infrastructure and post-harvest losses are the core challenges affecting agriculture sector performance and disincentivizing financing for the sector”.

    Despite efforts, agriculture in Ghana remains primarily rain-fed and on a subsistence basis, with only 15% of farms classified as commercialized.

    The report emphasizes the urgent need to address core challenges such as low mechanization, poor farm recordkeeping, inadequate storage, processing capacities, rural transportation infrastructure, and post-harvest losses, which disincentivize financing for the sector.

    To bridge existing funding gaps, the report calls for more interventions from funds and financial institutions, notably the Agriculture Development Bank and Ghana EXIM Bank, both mandated to provide funding to actors in the agriculture value chain.

    The report also highlights the growing food security risk in Ghana due to climate change, with the country being among the top 10 most severely impacted despite contributing minimally to global warming. Ghana experienced a significant rise in food prices in 2022, evidenced by a 23.8% increase in the national food price index.

    Ghana’s agriculture economy is valued at approximately $12.6 billion, contributing an average of 20% to Gross Domestic Product over the last five years. Cash crops and other commodity exports from agriculture make up 20-25% of total export revenues, with the sector employing over 35% of the total labor force.

  • Leadership is about the lives you touch, not the rank you hold – Retired CDS to military officers

    Leadership is about the lives you touch, not the rank you hold – Retired CDS to military officers


    The outgoing Chief of Defence Staff, Vice Admiral Seth Amoama, has urged the leadership of the Ghana Armed Forces (GAF) to prioritize their responsibilities over personal interests.

    Emphasizing that their roles should ensure national security, he conveyed a message to officers, highlighting the essence of leadership beyond ranks.

    “Leadership is not about the rank you hold. It’s about the lives you touch and the legacies you leave. In service, we find purpose but in leadership we inspire greatness. And so officers, I implore you to be committed to your leadership responsibilities.

    Vice Admiral Amoama extended his call to warrant officers and senior NCOs, stressing the importance of translating commanders’ intentions into actions.

    Addressing soldiers, sailors, and airmen, he urged them to dedicate themselves to hard work and rigorous training to effectively execute orders and tasks.

    In anticipation of a smooth transition, he encouraged support for the incoming Chief of Defence Staff, General Thomas Oppong-Peprah, and expressed gratitude to his family, particularly acknowledging his wife Victoria for unwavering support throughout his illustrious career.

    “I would like to ask you to extend the same loyalty and support to General Thomas Oppong-Peprah to continue to lift high the image of the Ghana Armed Forces and finally, I wish to convey my immense gratitude to my family for their understanding and support.

  • Carrying out your duties demands professionalism – Outgone CDS to military officers

    Carrying out your duties demands professionalism – Outgone CDS to military officers

    Members of the Ghana Armed Forces (GAF) have been urged to uphold professionalism in the execution of their duties.

    In light of recent reports of emerging threats and strained military-civilian relations, a stern caution has been issued to GAF officers, emphasizing the importance of maintaining peaceful coexistence within the country.

    As Ghana gears up for the 2024 general elections, the departing Chief of Defence Staff (CDS), Vice Admiral Seth Amoama, has called for the leadership of GAF to demonstrate loyalty and a high level of professionalism.

    These remarks were delivered during a ceremony in Accra on February 1, where Major General Thomas Oppong-Peprah was sworn in as the new Chief of Defence Staff.

  • Emission Levy proceeds should not be deposited into Consolidated Fund – ICEG tells govt

    Emission Levy proceeds should not be deposited into Consolidated Fund – ICEG tells govt

    The Institute of Climate and Environmental Governance (ICEG) has raised concerns over the government’s apparent lack of commitment to invest the revenue generated from the Emission Levy.

    The Ghana Revenue Authority (GRA) has initiated the Emissions Levy Act, 2023 (Act 1112), which imposes a levy on carbon dioxide equivalent emissions from internal combustion engine vehicles, starting today.

    ICEG recommends the establishment of an Emission Fund to ensure a robust accountability mechanism for the judicious allocation of funds generated. The institute emphasizes that proceeds from the Emission Levy should not be directed to the Consolidated Fund.

    In a released statement, ICEG expresses concern about the government’s commitment beyond the levy imposition and urges a gradual implementation of the levy.

    They advocate for the establishment of necessary institutional infrastructure for effective implementation and revenue utilization.

    “Despite the progressive nature of the Levy, ICEG is concerned about the apparent lack of commitment by the Government beyond the imposition of the Levy, to investing the expected revenue on financing green infrastructure.”

    “Proceeds accrued should not be deposited into the Consolidated Fund. The government should consider setting up an Emission Fund to ensure a proper accountability mechanism that ensures judicious allocation of funds generated. Call on the Government to slowly implement the Levy and put up the necessary institutional infrastructure for effective implementation and use of revenue.”

    ICEG recognizes the economic impact on vehicle owners and calls on the government to enhance public awareness, informing citizens about the environmental benefits of emission reduction.

    “The government should consider intensifying public awareness to inform citizens of the environmental benefits of reducing emissions,” states the statement signed by Kwesi Yamoah Abaidoo, Policy Lead, Climate Finance and Energy Transition.

    The Emissions Levy aligns with the government’s efforts to address greenhouse gas emissions, encouraging the adoption of eco-friendly technology and green energy. The levy amount varies based on the vehicle type and engine capacity, with different rates for motorcycles, tricycles, motor vehicles, buses, coaches, cargo trucks, and articulated trucks.

  • We will take action if you fail to revoke VAT on electricity – Organised Labour to govt

    We will take action if you fail to revoke VAT on electricity – Organised Labour to govt

    Organised Labour plans to convene and determine its course of action following the government’s failure to meet the deadline for withdrawing the electricity tax.

    Last week, Organised Labour formally requested the government to retract the proposed electricity tax scheduled for implementation this year. The government argued that the tax aimed to support its COVID-19 recovery efforts.

    In an interview on Wednesday, Joshua Ansah, Deputy Secretary-General of the Trade Union Congress (TUC), stated that if the government does not withdraw the Value Added Tax (VAT) on residential electricity consumption by the end of the day, Organised Labour would reassess its position.

    “We are steadfast in our stance that unless a complete withdrawal is implemented, we maintain our decision that if by the end of today, the government fails to withdraw, Organised Labour will advise itself,” Ansah asserted.

    He further added, “Organised Labour will convene and make a decision if the government remains inactive regarding the total withdrawal.”

  • Akufo-Addo and Bawumia have made corruption normal – Sammy Gyamfi

    Akufo-Addo and Bawumia have made corruption normal – Sammy Gyamfi

    The Communications Officer of the National Democratic Congress(NDC), Sammy Gyamfi, has levied accusations against the Akufo-Addo-Bawumia government, alleging the institutionalization of corruption.

    Mr Gyamfi based his claims on the Corruption Perception Index (CPI), emphasizing a significant deterioration in Ghana’s performance over the past seven years.

    He pointed out that Ghana achieved its highest CPI score of 48 in 2014 under John Dramani Mahama’s leadership. Conversely, the lowest performance in the last decade was recorded in 2017 under Akufo-Addo, with a score of 40.

    According to Mr Gyamfi, this downward trend signals a setback in the anti-corruption efforts, attributing the decline to the Akufo-Addo/Bawumia government’s alleged endorsement and promotion of corrupt practices.

    The stark contrast in CPI scores, as observed in the last seven years, leads Gyamfi to assert that the fight against corruption has been forfeited under the Akufo-Addo/Bawumia/NPP government.

    He claimed that corruption has been institutionalized and allowed to thrive unchecked.

    “Never in the history of Ghana has any government enabled, facilitated, promoted and defended corruption like this government has done.

    Below is Sammy Gyamfi’s full post

    SAMMY GYAMFI ESQ. WRITES ON THE LATEST CORRUPTION PERCEPTION INDEX:

    Did you know, that Ghana’s best Corruption Perception Index performance was achieved in the year 2014, under the leadership of H.E John Dramani Mahama, when the country attained its highest CPI score: a score of 48?

    Did you know that Ghana’s worst Corruption Perception Index performance in the last decade, was recorded in the year 2017, under the supervision of corrupt Akufo-Addo and Bawumia, when the country attained its lowest CPI score; a score of 40?

    Did you know that John Mahama’s worst Corruption Perception Index performance was a score of 43, recorded in the year 2016? And that, this score remains Akufo-Addo and Bawumia’s best score under the CPI of Transparency International.

    It is glaringly clear, from Ghana’s performance under the CPI in the last seven (7) years, that the fight against corruption has been lost by the corrupt and wasteful Akufo-Addo/Bawumia/NPP government, who have institutionalized corruption and made it a thriving free for all venture. Never in the history of Ghana has any government enabled, facilitated, promoted and defended corruption like this government has done.

    From the BOSTGATE scandal to the PDS scandal, to the PPA Contracts for Sale scandal, to the “Galamsey” fraud scandal, to the Ameri Novation scandal, to the missing excavators scandal, to the missing fertilizers scandal, to the missing oil scandal, to the missing tricycles scandal, to the Sputnik V Vaccine scandal, to the COVID-19 funds “chop chop” scandal, to the Number 12 scandal, to the Appearance Fee scandal, to the Gold Mafia scandal, to the stolen rice scandal, to the latest stinky SML scandal; Jack Toronto and his younger brother and Mentee, have facilitated, perpetrated and promoted corruption, leading to unprecedented financial losses to the state.

    Instead of protecting the public purse as they promised in opposition, they have brazenly desecrated the public purse, wasted meagre state resources on useless ventures and shielded co-perpetrators of corruption from accountability.

    Instead of fighting corruption, they have turned around to fight corruption fighters with the might of the state, leading to the murder of an anti-corruption investigative journalist, Ahmed Suale, the unlawful ousting of the former Auditor General, Mr. Yao Domelevo, the resignation of the former Special Prosecutor, Martin A.B.K Amidu and the oppression of several journalists and critical voices.

    Remember, that a vote for Bawumia is a third-term vote for corrupt Akufo-Addo and his greedy cabal of family and friends.

    Don’t let your vote, aid them to escape from accountability. Rather let your vote, aid the state to hold them accountable.

    A vote for H.E John Dramani Mahama (The Nation Builder) is the only way, we can hold these crooks accountable for the several crimes they have committed against our beloved nation.

    #CorruptAkufo-Addo
    #CorruptBawumia
    #CorruptNPPGovernment

    SIGNED.
    SAMMY GYAMFI ESQ.
    National Communications Officer, NDC

  • Even Satan doesn’t come close to you – Arko Gunn tells Jean Mensa

    Even Satan doesn’t come close to you – Arko Gunn tells Jean Mensa

    The Deputy National Communication Officer of the National Democratic Congress (NDC), Arko Gunn, has likened the Electoral Commission (EC) to an entity more threatening than “Satan” himself.

    In an interview with Peace FM, he expressed strong disapproval of the Electoral Commission’s (EC) proposed change in the election date.

     Mr Gunn articulated the NDC’s stance on the proposed shift from December 7 to November for elections, asserting that while the party does not inherently oppose the date change, the timing of the proposal raises concerns.

    He emphasized that the party’s calendar has long been prepared, and as such, they are unwilling to support the EC’s proposition.

    EC is more dangerous than the devil. You want to move elections from December 7 to November we don’t have a problem but this should have done long time. Because the party’s calender is ready as such we won’t support the EC’s proposal. We gave them examples as to why we don’t want to accept their decision.

    The EC has proposed that the general election date be changed from December 7 to November 7.

    The Chairperson of the Commission, Jean Mensa, proposed this adjustment during a meeting with the Inter-Party Advisory Committee (IPAC) on Monday, January 22, 2024 .

    In addition to the date change, the EC suggested that the election day be made a national holiday.

    The EC explained that this will help boost civic engagement and contribute to the development of a more robust democratic culture.

    This proposal follows a petition by the Seventh Adventist Church, indicating that Saturday, December 7, is a Sabbath day.

    The church has called in the Attorney-General’office to support amending the election day to either November 1 or 2.

    The Church leadership petitioned the Attorney-General’s office to support a bill amending the election day to either the 1st or 2nd Tuesday of November.

    The objective is to ensure an inclusive democratic exercise without intentionally hindering anyone from exercising their voting rights.

    The deputy chairperson of the EC, Dr. Bossman Asare, has indicated that the Commission contemplated changing the election date for the 2024 general election as early as 2020.

    He mentioned that the intention to change the 2024 election date was considered in 2020 after certain political parties proposed a change in date.

  • Your bad leadership is one of Africa’s biggest challenges – Akufo-Addo tells African leaders

    Your bad leadership is one of Africa’s biggest challenges – Akufo-Addo tells African leaders

    President Akufo-Addo has delivered a forthright message to African leaders, highlighting the critical impact of ineffective leadership as a primary obstacle to progress on the continent.

    In his address, he underscored the imperative for a collective commitment to overcoming this internal challenge, emphasizing the pivotal role of sound governance in fostering sustainable development across Africa.

    President Akufo-Addo also urged fellow Heads of State and the global business community to focus on unlocking the $450 billion potential income from the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) by 2035.

    A one percent increase in Africa’s share of global trade, he believes, could generate an additional seventy billion dollars annually for the continent.

    To achieve this, the President calls for global support for a new investment approach prioritizing partnerships between private sectors in advanced economies and African economies.

    Speaking at the Africa-Italy summit, he emphasized the need to combat tax-dodging and illicit financial flows, which hinder Africa’s development.

    “Before 2020, Africa was attracting increasing foreign direct investment (FDI), although overall FDI inflows remained much lower than in other world regions. Between 2000 and 2019, FDI flows to Africa increased fourfold, with a compound annual growth rate of eight-point-five percent (8.5%). Our biggest challenge is not a scarcity of financing, but a confluence of poor governance, speculative risk perception, and a defective environment for crowding in investors.”

    “it has become even more urgent to provide reliable electricity, affordable and decent housing, improved transportation networks, and accessible health infrastructure.” he emphasised. 

    Despite infrastructure projects often failing, the President is optimistic that with reforms, Africa could attract $550 billion in annual investments in infrastructure.

    “Recent happenings within the global space, particularly the COVID-19 pandemic, the Russian invasion of Ukraine, and the turmoil in the Middle East, which is threatening to engulf the rest of the world, have increased the need for policymakers on the African continent to achieve a structural transformation that yields inclusive and sustainable growth patterns over the medium to long term.”

    Emphasizing the importance of creating a de-risked landscape, President Akufo-Addo encourages innovative resource mobilization from private sources, international financial institutions, and sovereign wealth funds.

    He stressed the need for transformative investments like infrastructure to boost Africa’s development.

    The African Development Bank estimates the continent’s infrastructure financing needs at $170 billion annually by 2025, with a $100 billion gap. Given Africa’s 2.5% annual population growth, the President underscores the urgency to provide reliable electricity, affordable housing, improved transportation, and accessible health infrastructure.

    Highlighting post-COVID-19 recovery efforts, he notes the increased need for policymakers in Africa to achieve a structural transformation amid global challenges such as the COVID-19 pandemic, the Russian invasion of Ukraine, and turmoil in the Middle East. This transformation aims to yield inclusive and sustainable growth patterns over the medium to long term.

  • Wontumi reveals question he was ‘forced’ to ask NAPO during vetting

    Wontumi reveals question he was ‘forced’ to ask NAPO during vetting

    The Ashanti Regional Chairman for the New Patriotic Party (NPP), Bernard Bosiako Antwi, popularly known as Chairman Wontumi has revealed what happened during the vetting of candidates for the party’s parliamentary primaries.

    According to Chairman Wontumi, he was a part of the panelists who had to take the aspiring Member of Parliament (MPs) through the vetting process.

    He disclosed that during the process, he was reluctant to interrogate the Energy Minister, Matthew Opoku Prempeh, also known as NAPO because he had no questions to ask at that time.

    “ I am a servant of NPP, the other day we were given an opportunity to interact with individuals who were coming for vetting. I had a lot of interaction with a lot until it got to the turn of NAPO. I told him I have no questions to ask him but the committee chairman, Nana B insisted I did,” he added.

    Chairman Wontumi said he was compelled to engage NAPO after the National Organiser of the party, Henry Nana Boakye, (Nana B) who was also the chairman for the committee and the other panellists insisted he does.

    He said that after throwing a question at NAPO, one of the panellists suggested they all bear witness to the good works of NAPO.

     “I told him that I didn’t ask KT Hammond anything so I won’t do the same. NAPO sat close to 10 mins because I wasn’t willing to ask him anything so I eventually asked him. I asked him if the NPP wins in 2024 what should Ghana expect from the party. He said Ghana will experience development. I didn’t ask him anything again because there were otters waiting. Nana B later said we had to testify and they all praised him, but I said nothing. When NAPO was going Nana B and the others escorted him,” he stated. 


    Wontumi’s failure to recognize NAPO’s contributions to the party’s internal activities in the Ashanti region, according to him, got the Chief of Kokoso, Nana Kwaku Duah, furious who later came verbally attacking him  after NAPO had left the committee.

    “Long after my organizer at Manhyia South came screaming and hitting the table saying if no one will speak I will. He asked me why I didn’t testify for NAPO. I told him to go because I don’t want to retaliate. I told him this is my kingdom, as soon as I said that he said Otumfuor is the only person that has a kingdom. I meant it was my political kingdom,” he explained.

    In the heat of the argument,, Wontumi said he had to control the situation by telling Nana Kwaku Duah “NPP is his Kingdom in Ashanti Region and that at that vetting, the issues at stake were purely party issues.”

    Wontumi revealed this when he appeared before the Kumasi Traditional Council for allegedly using derogatory remarks against the Asantehene, Otumfuo Osei Tutu II and the Asanteman.

    Nana Kwaku Duah had claimed that Chairman Wontumi displayed significant disrespect towards the Otumfuo Osei Tutu II, during the vetting process leading up to the NPP’s Parliamentary primaries.

    In the meantime, Chairman Wontumi has been cleared of allegations of disrespecting the Ashanti stool.

  • ECG goes after consumers who are not paying their bills

    ECG goes after consumers who are not paying their bills

    The Electricity Company of Ghana (ECG) is set to commence the ‘No Free Consumption’ operation on Thursday, February 1, targeting customers and electricity users who are consuming power without payment.

    The initiative involves ECG field teams updating customer details, including phone numbers and GPS addresses, collecting arrears, and disconnecting services for non-payment.

    This enforcement, effective today, will run until Thursday, February 15, 2024.

    The External Relations Officer of ECG, Laila Abubakar, issued a warning of possible prosecution for customers engaging in this unauthorized consumption.

    “We have done targeted mapping of where these pay points are. And we are going to use the next two weeks to fish out these people who are using electricity without paying anything to us.

    “We found them last year and tried to regularise them and they have gone back to their old ways. We now have a new directorate which is the prosecution directorate which is going to take on a lot of companies and individuals who have refused to stick to the ethos of using power and paying for power. For the next 12 months to come we have various revenue mobilisations that are going to happen,” he said.

  • Include Jubilee Oil Holdings’ proceeds into Petroleum Holding Fund – PIAC tells govt

    Include Jubilee Oil Holdings’ proceeds into Petroleum Holding Fund – PIAC tells govt

    The Public Interest and Accountability Committee (PIAC) is advocating for the inclusion of proceeds from liftings of Jubilee Holdings Limited (JOHL) and other subsidiaries of the Ghana National Petroleum Corporation into the Petroleum Holding Fund (PHF).

    PIAC contends that these liftings constitute petroleum revenues and, as such, should be deposited into the PHF.

    This recommendation stems from the committee’s findings in the upstream petroleum sector, as outlined in its 2023 semi-annual report.

    The report highlights a reduction in the total number of existing Petroleum Agreements (PAs) from 14 to 13 as of June 2023, attributing this change to AGM’s Petroleum divesting its entire interest in the South Deep Water Tano Contract Area.

    Furthermore, PIAC revealed that JOHL failed to remit proceeds from liftings totaling $70,456,718.93 into the PHF during the first half of the year.

    Notably, this marks the fourth consecutive instance of the company neglecting to contribute liftings’ proceeds from the Jubilee and TEN Fields, amounting to $343,108,927.88, as stated by PIAC.

    “This is the fourth consecutive time the company has failed to pay the proceeds of liftings from the jubilee and TEN Fields, amounting to $343,108,927.88,” PIAC added.

  • Your strike lacks merit and justification – NLC tells teacher unions

    Your strike lacks merit and justification – NLC tells teacher unions


    The Executive Secretary of the National Labour Commission (NLC), Ofosu Asamoah, has criticized the ongoing strike by labor unions within the educational sector, deeming their actions ‘unmeritorious’ and ‘needless.’

    Currently, the Senior Staff Association of Universities of Ghana, Federation of Universities Senior Staff (FUSSAG), Teachers and Educational Workers Union of Ghana (TEWU), and the Ghana Association of University Administrators (GAUA) are on strike due to the government’s failure to address their concerns.

    These concerns include issues such as tier-two pension funds, vehicle maintenance allowance, and overtime allowance, among others. Despite ongoing negotiations with the Commission, the unions opted for a strike, prompting Mr. Ofosu to express his disapproval.

    In an interview on Eyewitness News on Citi FM with Umaru Sanda Amadu, Mr. Ofosu criticized the unions for their precipitous decisions, especially when agreements had been reached during negotiations.

    “There was an agreement between the parties involved. You leave the commission and go and declare a strike, and all others have also joined. You have put something across, and you have agreed, why go on strike when your issues have been resolved? Why do you want to be on strike when those issues that have not been resolved are being resolved by your good self?”

    “It’s quite an unfortunate situation. It’s like, at the moment, the strike is becoming a tool that is being misused. I failed to find the legs on which they were standing to declare the strike and close all universities. As if they just want to close it for fun. Their strike is unmeritorious, it’s needless,” he pointed out.

    He further described the actions by the labour unions as ‘wrong’ and unlawful.’

    “As the Executive Secretary of the NLC, with my experience, knowledge, and everything of the law, I think this is an unlawful [strike],” Mr. Asamoah insisted.

    As the Executive Secretary of the NLC, Mr. Asamoah further described the actions by the labor unions as ‘wrong’ and ‘unlawful.’